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Definitions

hopeful

[hohp-fuhl] / ˈhoʊp fəl /
ADJECTIVE
optimistic, expectant
Synonyms
STRONGEST
buoyant cheerful comfortable confident eager enthusiastic rosy sanguine trusting upbeat
STRONG
calm content faithful high
WEAK
anticipating anticipative assured at ease blithe elated emboldened expecting forward-looking hoping inspirited keeping the faith lighthearted looking forward to reassured rose-colored satisfied serene trustful unflagging
Antonyms
STRONGEST
apathetic depressed down pessimistic sad unenthusiastic unhappy
WEAK
despairing desperate despondent discouraged fearful low wretched
ADJECTIVE
promising, auspicious
Synonyms
STRONGEST
cheerful encouraging exciting favorable fortunate good gracious likely pleasant probable reasonable reassuring rosy
STRONG
cheering fair fine fit halcyon pleasing rousing stirring uplifting
WEAK
advantageous arousing beneficial bright conducive convenient elating enlivening expeditious flattering fortifying golden heartening helpful inspiring inspiriting lucky opportune promiseful propitious providential roseate suitable sunny timely well-timed
Antonyms
STRONGEST
disagreeable hateful implausible mean nasty unlikely unpleasant unpromising
STRONG
cloudy dark rainy stormy
WEAK
gloomy hopeless inauspicious pointless

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Jim Suty, president of the Friends of Oceano Dunes, which favors recreational use of the area, said he’s hopeful that parks officials can open the area as promised.

From Los Angeles Times • May 5, 2026

Veradermics reported promising late-stage trial results for a new hair-loss pill, the latest in a string of hopeful results from companies developing treatments.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 1, 2026

Thompson is hopeful that Pollock and the like will soon have the year-round publicity they need to burn bright.

From BBC • Apr. 30, 2026

Vitaliy, a 26-year-old philologist, was hopeful the proposal could lead to a longer halt in combat.

From Barron's • Apr. 30, 2026

Each time we found an empty house we were disappointed, but hopeful and excited that the next day would be it.

From "Breaking Through" by Francisco Jiménez

Vocabulary lists containing hopeful

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Emotions on Display

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In the Mood? 100 Words to Describe Emotions

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!